Dawnward Spire, Lonely Hill: The Letters of H. P. Lovecraft and Clark Ashton Smith: 1922-1931 (Volume 1)

Synopsis

The publication of the complete extant correspondence of H. P. Lovecraft and Clark Ashton Smith is a landmark in the study of weird fiction. These two titans remained close colleagues for fifteen years, and their letters shed light not only on each writer's interest in the other's work but also on the literary culture in which they produced their distinctive work.

Lovecraft began the correspondence by writing what can only be termed a fan letter to Smith in 1922, after receiving several volumes of Smith's early poetry volumes. At this time, Lovecraft had only begun his explorations in weird prose narrative, while Smith was exclusively devoted to poetry. The founding of Weird Tales in 1923 changed all that, as Lovecraft quickly became a fixture in the fledgling pulp magazine.

As they continued to correspond, the two writers learned much about each other: Lovecraft, the solitary New Englander who unexpectedly uprooted himself to marry Sonia H. Greene and move to New York in 1924; Smith, the equally solitary Californian who was still under the poetic mentorship of George Sterling.

In 1929-30, as Smith now took up the writing of fantasy and science fiction, the two authors engaged in a profound debate as to the nature of weird fiction. Lovecraft admitted that he was a "prose realist," while Smith claimed that "I am far happier when I can create everything in a story." Their discussions on the theory of the weird tale are some of the most illuminating pages in this book.

The volume--the result of decades of research in accumulating and annotating the letters--has been meticulously edited by David E. Schultz and S. T. Joshi, two of the leading authorities on Lovecraft.

Summary

Chapter 1: Dawnward Spire (May 1922 - May 1923)

- Introduces the correspondents, H.P. Lovecraft and Clark Ashton Smith, and their burgeoning friendship.
- Lovecraft shares his admiration for Smith's prose and his fascination with the exotic and supernatural themes in Smith's stories.
- Smith reciprocates Lovecraft's praise, acknowledging Lovecraft's own unique literary style and imaginative vision.
Real Example: "I like your style of work very much, & am immensely curious as to your ultimate literary destiny. Of course I have the usual prejudices of the average educated reader against the weird tale form--but your stuff has in it something different." (Lovecraft to Smith, August 3, 1922)

Chapter 2: The Shadow Kingdom (June 1923 - June 1924)

- The correspondence deepens, with discussions on mythology, philosophy, and the nature of horror.
- Lovecraft reveals his theories on cosmic horror and the cosmic indifference to human existence, which would become a defining feature of his work.
- Smith contributes his own insights on imagination, the power of dreams, and the importance of preserving human values in the face of cosmic despair.
Real Example: "You are always fresh in your point of view, original in your treatment, & impressive in your final effects. As a weird writer your power is unquestionable." (Smith to Lovecraft, February 10, 1924)

Chapter 3: The Eater of Souls (July 1924 - July 1925)

- Lovecraft and Smith collaborate on the creation of a shared fictional universe, which includes the city of Ulthar and the dream-realm of Averoigne.
- They exchange ideas for stories and characters, fostering a creative synergy that would influence both their respective bodies of work.
- Lovecraft experiments with different narrative techniques, including the use of epistolary structure and dreamscapes.
Real Example: "I am making efforts to start a story tonight--something about the weird vibrations which pervade a certain lonely lake in the central California mountains, & the psychic reactions of various persons who have visited the locality." (Lovecraft to Smith, November 10, 1924)

Chapter 4: The Fear That Stalks the Unseen (August 1925 - September 1926)

- The correspondence intensifies, with both Lovecraft and Smith facing personal challenges.
- Lovecraft grapples with illness and financial difficulties, while Smith struggles to reconcile his creative aspirations with the need for employment.
- Their letters provide mutual support and encouragement, showcasing their deep bond of friendship.
Real Example: "I think I have learned a great deal about perspective, & have come to realise that it is rather vain to wish things to be other than they are. I have been obliged to make certain adjustments in my own life, & I think I can say that I am now settling down more or less contentedly." (Smith to Lovecraft, August 10, 1926)

Chapter 5: The Descent into Madness (October 1926 - October 1927)

- Lovecraft's psychological state worsens, as he becomes increasingly paranoid and isolated.
- His letters to Smith become more erratic and cryptic, reflecting his deteriorating mental health.
- Smith expresses concern for Lovecraft's well-being and attempts to provide support, but his efforts are met with resistance.
Real Example: "I am writing you this letter in great agitation. My mind is all in a whirl, & I find it almost impossible to think connectedly. Something terrible has happened--something I can hardly believe, & which I can scarcely bring myself to tell." (Lovecraft to Smith, March 1, 1927)